Pecan trees grow into massive shade trees that can top 100 feet given enough time, all while quietly producing one of the most prized nuts in American baking.
Native to the southern United States and Mexico, pecan needs two genetically different trees nearby for reliable pollination, and given its eventual size, it's best suited to large properties rather than small yards.
Pecan trees want full sun and deep, well-draining soil, and they need significant room to grow into their mature size. Planting two different varieties improves cross-pollination and nut production, since most pecan cultivars aren't reliably self-fertile.
A grafted pecan tree can take 4 to 6 years before its first real harvest, while seedling trees may take a decade or more — grafted trees are the better choice for gardeners who want nuts sooner.
